Iemma must match Bracks on renewable energy or he will become Australia’s direst power premier - Cohen - 3 November 2005

Greens MLC Ian Cohen has called on the NSW Premier to match the Victorian Government’s commitment to meet 10% of the state’s electricity needs from renewable sources by 2010.

“This is a very modest target that could be easily achieved. Beyond that we need a 20% by 2020 target,” Mr Cohen said.

“While some companies and consumers are doing their bit through Green Power electricity products, the NSW Government is not doing its bit to provide the incentives for renewables over coal.

“Without environmental action soon Mr Iemma risks looking like Australia’s dirtiest power premier: dependent on coal with no green credentials.

“In the lead up to the 2007 election the NSW community will be demanding that the Premier rule out any new coal fired power plants.

“The Victorian Government is estimating its renewable energy target will bring in $2 Billion worth of investment.

“Moving away from coal is not just critical for the planet’s future it’s the job rich alternative,” Mr Cohen said.